Step by step
- Sit near a steady low-frequency sound source such as a fan or air conditioner.
- Put on your headphones with no audio playing and listen for a few seconds.
- Turn Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) on and notice if the low hum drops sharply.
- Switch to Transparency mode (if available) to confirm outside voices sound clear again.
At a glance
| Sound type | What ANC blocks | What earpads block |
|---|---|---|
| Fan or AC hum | Blocks most of it | Reduces it slightly |
| Airplane or bus rumble | Blocks deeply | Reduces it moderately |
| Voices or typing | Reduces slightly | Blocks better with tight seal |
| Wind noise | May cause hiss | Depends on mic mesh |
Where to find it on your device
- iPhone: Settings > Bluetooth > Your Headphones > Noise Control
- macOS: System Settings > Bluetooth > Your Headphones
Related questions
Can a browser tool test active noise cancelling?
No, a browser tool cannot measure how well your headphones block room noise. You need to test ANC in a real room by toggling it on and off.
Why do I still hear voices with noise cancelling on?
ANC works best on steady, low-frequency hums like fans or engines. Sudden, higher-pitched sounds like voices rely mostly on the physical seal of the earpads.
What if noise cancelling makes a hissing sound?
A faint hiss in a quiet room is normal for many ANC headphones. If it is loud or only on one side, clean the outer microphones or check your fit.
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Updated November 14, 2026.